Anne O’'Dell’'s is a retired twenty-year veteran of the San Diego Police Department. The following are her recommendations to help you obtain photos that convict, and preserve the crucial chain of evidence.
Wound Documentation
- Evidence of abuse is needed. Document examples of fresh bruising or cuts.
- Check the upper and lower arms for defensive injuries received while the victim tried to deflect blows from the suspect.
- Look for, and photograph, old scars and fading bruises which may illustrate a pattern of abuse over time.
- If possible, take 1x photos that document small or fading injuries such as scars.
- If the victim is female, at least one of the responding officers should be female (if possible) so she can check for and photograph wounds, bruises, or scars that might be hidden by clothing.
- When possible, take additional photos 24 to 48 hours after the crime, when the size and coloring of the victim’'s bruises become more apparent. (Every law enforcement agency should have a procedure to ensure follow-up photos are taken.)
Crime Scene Documentation
- Photos of the environment in which the abuse occurred will help to indicate the nature and severity of the crime.
- Document broken furniture, smashed lamps or mirrors, empty alcohol containers, broken or smashed doors and/or door locks.
- If a weapon or weapons are present, photograph these next to a ruler or other familiar object to indicate size.
O’'Dell, who provides tips on securing photo documentation of evidence in her seminars, also recommends viewing of the “Polaroid Domestic Violence Response Video” for Law Enforcement Professionals (PID 1F5159) training video. The video is 10 minutes long, perfect for roll calls and available free of charge from Polaroid. Call 1-800-811-5764 ext. 732 to receive your complimentary copy.
